Grass-punky
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Atrichopogon levis
grass punky
Atrichopogon levis, commonly known as the grass punky, is a biting midge in the family Ceratopogonidae. Larvae develop within grass stems, particularly bluegrass (Poa pratensis), feeding on plant juices. Adult females are aggressive blood-feeders on mammals, including humans, causing irritating bites. The complete life cycle from egg to adult takes approximately 3–4 weeks under favorable conditions. The species is a significant nuisance pest in grassy areas and has been recorded from Hawaii.